Setting the Pace: Mindy Frazer-Epstein Leads Cross Country’s First Steps

Monaca, PA — The Penn State Beaver Athletics Department is excited to announce the hiring of Mindy Frazer-Epstein as Head Cross Country Coach, marking the launch of the program’s inaugural season. This exciting addition begins a new chapter for the department as Penn State Beaver introduces both men’s and women’s cross country, set to compete in the Penn State University Athletic Conference (PSUAC) and the United States Collegiate Athletic Association (USCAA), alongside the department’s other varsity sports. The 2026–27 season will officially mark the first season of competition for the program.

Coach Frazer-Epstein comes to Penn State Beaver with over two decades of coaching experience and a lifelong commitment to competitive athletics. She brings a dynamic blend of leadership, energy, and expertise to the Beaver Lions cross country program. Frazer-Epstein has coached since 2005, most recently serving as Head Track and Field Coach at Sharpsville Area High School, Head Cross Country Coach at Kennedy Catholic High School, and Head Cross Country Coach at Penn State Shenango.

Frazer-Epstein will play a key role in building the program from the ground up. “My goal is to create an environment where our student-athletes feel supported, challenged, and proud to represent this program,” said Frazer-Epstein. “I’m excited to get started and see what we can build together.”

In addition to her school coaching experience, Frazer-Epstein has worked with Mind, Kinetics & Energetics (MKE) and the USA Track & Field Association since 2013. She holds USATF Level 1 and Level 2 coaching certifications and is an active member of the United States Triathlon Association (USAT) and the Tri-State Track Coaches Association (TSTCA). Over her coaching career, she has guided 21 District 10 champions, 12 state qualifiers, nine state medalists, a PSUAC Cross Country Champion, and a fourth-place finisher at the USCAA National Championships.

Athletic Director Andy Kirschner expressed his excitement about the hire: “Hiring Coach Mindy Frazer-Epstein is a huge step forward for our cross country program. Her enthusiasm, knowledge of the sport, and commitment to building a strong culture stood out immediately, and we’re thrilled to have her lead this new program.”

Frazer-Epstein shared her enthusiasm for the opportunity: “I’m incredibly grateful for the opportunity to lead this program in its first season. Being able to build a cross country program from the ground up is exciting, and I’m looking forward to creating a culture that values hard work, teamwork, and growth both on and off the course.”

Outside of coaching, Frazer-Epstein remains an active and accomplished athlete. She continues to compete in road races and triathlons and is a member of the Grove City Masters Swim Team. Her collegiate athletic background includes competing in cross country and track & field, where she recorded a personal best of 17:58 in the 5K, won a state title in the 800 meters, and helped set records in the 800m and 4x400m relay. At Sharon High School, she was a three-time state qualifier in cross country and held five school records.

Frazer-Epstein holds a bachelor’s degree from Slippery Rock University in biology, chemistry, and Asian studies. The 2026–27 season will mark her first year at the helm of the Penn State Beaver cross country program.

Please join us in welcoming Coach Mindy Frazer-Epstein to Penn State Beaver Athletics.
For more information or interest in joining the team, contact Coach Frazer-Epstein at msf116@psu.edu or Athletic Director Andy Kirschner at ack121@psu.edu.